Local lawmakers talk about pay raise coming their way

Here are comments from some state lawmakers who represent Berks County on their 1.7 percent quality-of-life pay raises that take effect Dec. 1:

Rep. Thomas R. Caltagirone, a Reading Democrat: "It's been approved by the federal government. We didn't get any the past two years."

Sen. Mike Folmer, a Lebanon Republican: "In our economic climate right now, we shouldn't be doing it. And I'm going to be saying so. Eighty-three thousand people are coming off unemployment this year. I couldn't be more emphatic about it."

Rep. David M. Maloney Sr., a Pike Township Republican: "I've just been getting ready for inauguration. I really don't know any of the particulars right now."

Rep. Douglas G. Reichley, a Lehigh County Republican: "I will likely do what I did when a similar increase occurred in 2008, and donate the amount of the adjustment to the Offices of Mental Health and Mental Retardation in Berks and Lehigh counties. I believe we should look for ways to help important programs in our communities to help those suffering from mental illnesses, and I hope this small amount I can offer to those programs helps some people in need."

Rep. Dante Santoni Jr., a Reading Democrat: "It's very difficult for many people right now. I'd have to take a look at what others (lawmakers) are going to do (with the money)."

Rep. Mike Tobash, a Schuylkill County Republican: "It's certainly not something I would have voted on. I haven't made any votes yet. I don't know that it's a good time for that (a raise) with the state of our budget. I ran on reducing the cost."